Definition

1. Noun:
   • Theater crew member responsible for props: A "property man" is a member of the stage crew whose specific job is to acquire, maintain, organize, and handle all the props (short for "properties") used in a theatrical production, film, or television show.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The property man ensured every letter and glass was in its correct place for the scene.
  • Ask the property man if the antique pistol is safe to handle.
  • Her first job in the theater was as a property man for a small touring company.

Advanced Usage

• The role is often specialized, with a "property man" sometimes being responsible for specific types of props, such as weapons (weapons master) or furniture.
• In modern usage, the gender-neutral terms property master or props master are more common, though "property man" is still understood within theatrical contexts.

Variants and Related Words

• Property master (n): The head of the props department; a modern, gender-neutral term for "property man."
• Props person (n): A general term for anyone working in the props department.
• Prop (n): Short for "property"; an object used on stage or screen by actors during a performance.

Synonyms

• Props master: The person in charge of properties.
• Props crew member: A more general term for someone working with props.

Related Phrases and Terms

• Running props: Props that are handled by actors during a performance. The property man must ensure these are set correctly for each show.
• Set props: Larger props that are part of the stage setting, like furniture. The property man also manages these.
• To be in props: A colloquial phrase meaning to work in the property department.
  • He's been in props for twenty years.

Noun

1. member of the stage crew in charge of properties